We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Sustainable Value Roadmap for the Plastics Industry
AI summary Read the abstract
This paper examined sustainability challenges for the plastics industry, reviewing life cycle perspectives and proposing a sustainable value roadmap to address microplastic contamination, marine pollution, and plastic landfill accumulation. The roadmap identifies collaborative opportunities for researchers, governments, and industry to transition toward more sustainable plastic production and disposal systems.
The plastics industry has revolutionized several sectors, from packaging to automotive, enabling companies to develop innovative products and enhance their economic competitiveness. However, the exponential growth of this industry has also resulted in a concerning increase in plastic waste, leading to environmental repercussions such as microplastic contamination, marine pollution and plastic landfills. Therefore, researchers, governments, and industrial stakeholders are starting to work collaboratively to address this sustainability issue by adopting a life cycle perspective. Nevertheless, plastic waste generation is not slowing down, and waste management strategies, along with other actions across the value chain, need to be improved. While limiting single-use plastics and promoting sustainable consumer practices is crucial, these measures alone may not be sufficient. Figuring out how to maximize products and materials' lifespan by exploring circular economy opportunities is just as important as minimizing global consumption. This research explores the challenges and opportunities faced by the plastics industry and draws a prototype roadmap to identify sustainable business opportunities and routes of implementation. It builds on previous works on sustainable value roadmapping by defining a vision, identifying drives, highlighting business opportunities and discussing enablers. Results systematize and expand opportunities and challenges identified in scientific literature and industrial reports whilst clearly outlining a vision.
More Papers Like This
An Examination of Microplastics: Environmental Impact, Sustainability, and Recyclability Innovation
AI summary Read the abstract
This paper examined the environmental impact of microplastics, sustainability implications of current plastic use, and recycling options to address the plastic pollution crisis. It called for a transition toward circular economy approaches that reduce primary plastic production and increase recycled content.
Transitioning to a Sustainable, Circular Economy for Plastics [Workshop Report]
AI summary Read the abstract
This is a workshop summary report about transitioning the U.S. plastics industry toward a circular economy, covering recycling technology, policy gaps, and business models. While it touches on plastic pollution as context, it is primarily a policy and industry roadmap document rather than a research study on microplastic environmental or health risks.
An Integrated Analysis of Plastic Packaging Value Chain: Identifying Barriers and Enablers for a Circular Economy
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers analyzed the full plastic packaging value chain to identify barriers and enablers for transitioning to a circular economy, tracing the evolution of circular economy concepts and quantifying the environmental impacts associated with exponential plastic waste growth. The study provides an integrated framework mapping opportunities for intervention across production, use, collection, and recycling stages.
System innovation and life cycle thinking in packaging value chain: the circularity of plastics.
AI summary Read the abstract
This paper examines the role of circular economy principles in reducing plastic packaging waste, noting that despite existing recycling systems, plastics remain pervasive environmental contaminants. The authors argue that redesigning packaging systems for recyclability and reducing over-packaging are essential steps to address microplastic pollution at its source.
Strategic pathways for sustainable plastic management through a circular economy approach in India
AI summary Read the abstract
This paper analyzed strategic pathways for sustainable plastic waste management in India through a circular economy lens, examining the environmental and health risks posed by microplastics from inadequate plastic disposal. The authors identify policy, infrastructure, and behavioral interventions needed to reduce India's microplastic burden.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.